Schools are the cornerstone of Malaysia’s heritage, especially those that have stood for over a century.
These institutions not only serve as places of learning but also as witnesses to the country’s evolving history.
Their walls have absorbed countless stories, and their significance makes it our shared responsibility to preserve them for future generations.
Unfortunately, SJKT Ladang Batu Ampat, a 120-year-old institution, recently faced a critical challenge when the ceiling of one of its classrooms collapsed on December 6.
State Executive Councillor for Human Resources and Poverty Eradication, V. Papparaidu, promptly visited the site on the same day.
Expressing his concern, he stated,
“The incident at SJKT Ladang Batu Ampat is highly alarming. I visited the site immediately to assess the situation firsthand. It was indeed hazardous.”
A teacher from the school revealed that the interiors of several classrooms were in poor condition, rendering them unfit for use by students.
Fortunately, this precautionary measure ensured that no injuries occurred during the ceiling collapse.
However, the incident highlighted the dire need for urgent repairs and upgrades.
The state administration has since committed to covering the cost of learning materials damaged in the incident.
In an effort to address the school’s challenges, Sentosa Assemblyman Tuan Dr. Gunarajah convened a meeting with Special Task Officers from the Ministry of Education.
In a Facebook update, he mentioned that the Local School Board (LPS) and the Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG) are working together to ensure the school remains operational.
Additionally, the land for the school has been secured, and plans for constructing a new building are underway.
The Ministry of Education has scheduled a follow-up meeting in January with all relevant government agencies to finalize the construction agenda.
This initiative aims to restore the school’s infrastructure and ensure a safe and conducive learning environment for its students.
The plight of SJKT Ladang Batu Ampat underscores the importance of maintaining and revitalizing Malaysia’s historic schools.
These institutions are more than educational facilities; they are vital links to our past, deserving of our collective attention and care.
Source: Nambikkai, Selangor Journal
